Wine and Food – a perfect pair at Terroir in NYC

Posted by A Gluten-Free Guide on May 1st, 2009

My first visit to Terroir, a cozy little wine bar in Manhattan’s East Village, was last year for a great first-date. Unfortunately the relationship didn’t stick but Terroir has since become one of my go-to places for after-dinner drinks. I frequent wine bars in NYC on a regular basis – but usually just for drinks and an occasional cheese plate. While there are a few with some gluten-free nibbles, I don’t plan on satiating hunger pangs at a wine bar. Terroir always offered great cheese and a few other gluten-free dishes, but they recently added more options to their menu from their sister-restaurant Hearth. It’s affordable and spring-tastic.
My recent dinner included a ‘ramp and asparagus frittata’ and a ‘fava and pecorino salad.’
Chickpeas and squid – light and fresh with lemon and the crunch of celery. Mushrooms roasted with thyme were perfect. Oh and cheese, don’t forget the cheese!

Finishing the meal with panna cotta topped with grappa soaked cherries? Life doesn’t get much better.
Terroir’s small plates are $3-9, much more affordable than Hearth’s main dishes. Plus you can get tasting glasses of any of their wines – I love being able to order smaller pours for less $$ since I can rarely finish a glass on my own!

I’m almost hesitant to share this find because it’s already difficult to get a seat, but it’s so delectable, I can stay silent no longer.

It’s down the street from S’mac and Back 40, a few blocks away from Prune and Knife + Fork – the culinary call of the East Village is strong. For an uptown wine bar with actual food options – give Casellula a try, but I’ll stay downtown for now…